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One of the most beautiful historic properties in Northern Ireland .
DISCOVER HILLSBOROUGH CASTLE
illsborough Castle , one of the most beautiful historic properties in Northern Ireland , is currently undergoing a major project to
Htransform the castle and grounds whilst improving the experience for day visitors and event guests alike .
The venue will be made more accessible further enabling it to become a leading visitor destination in Northern Ireland offering a place for reflection and a chance to learn more about the area and its history .
Independent charity Historic Royal Palaces , who assumed responsibility for Hillsborough Castle in 2014 , are undertaking the major transformation which is scheduled to be completed in 2019 .
The project includes the creation of new visitor facilities and a dedicated Clore Learning Centre , as well as the re-presentation of the State Rooms including the Throne Room , Drawing Room and Staircase Hall to provide newly-conserved spaces for functions and events .
Initial works are underway , with Historic Royal Palaces pledging to open up the castle and grounds to the widest possible audience , whilst conserving the site ’ s unique heritage and providing enjoyment , learning and participation opportunities .
A timeless venue
Hillsborough Castle boasts a rich history originally home to Wills Hill the first Marquess of Downshire and then Secretary of State for the Colonies , to its current role as official the official royal residence in Northern Ireland and residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland .
The castle has a vibrant history of state dinners and summits , as well as royal garden parties and now guests can enjoy the same elegant spaces and professional service previously reserved for presidents and princesses by hosting their meeting or event here .
Be a party to our history
Located 20 minutes from Belfast , the castle ’ s prestigious setting makes it a great base for all manner of corporate and private events . Hillsborough Castle offers a range of inspiring and versatile state rooms able to accommodate small meetings and large seminars or conferences of up to 130 delegates theatre style in the largest space , the Throne Room .
Product launches , drinks receptions , intimate celebrations , corporate away days and summer parties can all be hosted at the castle , available to hire exclusively for larger events of up to 250 guests .
Each of the state rooms offer an elegant , tranquil and welcoming atmosphere including the State Drawing Room , a large space which was once a library with terrace access offering views over the grounds .
This room can easily be combined with Lady Grey ’ s Study , which can serve as a breakout space for larger events .
The State Dining Room , once the scene of countless state dinners , is a popular choice for dinners and corporate entertaining , while the intimate Red Room boasts a beautiful solid oak floor , impressive paintings from the Royal Collection and access to the gardens through a modern French window .
The castle ’ s 96 acres of gardens , developed from the 1760s onwards , offer countless places to unwind , contemplate , socialise , seek inspiration and celebrate . The established marquee sites provide an ideal spot for drinks receptions , summer parties and weddings for up to 350 guests .
As part of an event , guests can take a stroll around the lake or along Yew Tree Walk ’ s wide path , flanked by the lines of Irish Yew trees .
A number of spaces inside the castle , as well as the garden marquees , are licensed for religious or civil weddings and civil partnerships .
Debbie McCamphill , Visitor and Events Manager at Hillsborough Castle , says : “ The castle is a fantastic venue to host any kind of event . We are continuing to welcome clients to the venue for weddings , conferences and events throughout the duration of our exciting major project to transform the castle .
“ We are very lucky to be able to provide a venue that really sets the standard for memorable and elegant events , and we are looking forward to revealing the new-look Hillsborough Castle in 2019 .”
In addition to Hillsborough Castle , Historic Royal Palaces also cares for the Tower of London , Hampton Court Palace , the Banqueting House , Kensington Palace and Kew Palace . Income raised from commercial activities including private and corporate events , is reinvested in conservation , public access and education activities to ensure the venues are well maintained and open for all to enjoy .